8 Best Cheap Rowing Machines 2026

Whisper-quiet, wallet-friendly, and ready to roll—this LUBBYGIM rower delivers where it matters most for budget-conscious beginners. With 3 elastic rope resistance levels, it offers a surprisingly smooth draw that’s gentle on joints, while the 32-inch rail system ensures a long, natural stroke ideal for taller users. Where most entry-level machines rattle or jerk, this one glides with a hyper-quiet operation that makes it perfect for apartment dwellers or early-morning workouts—no need to wake the household to get your cardio in.

In real-world testing, the LCD monitor keeps essentials like time, reps, and calories visible, though it lacks distance or SPM tracking found on pricier models. The 300 lb weight capacity and oversized seat make it sturdy enough for most users, but the rope resistance doesn’t scale well for advanced training—it’s great for steady-state cardio or light rehab, but falls short when you crave high-intensity resistance. On carpet or hardwood, the machine stays stable, though aggressive pulls can cause slight front lift due to the lighter frame.

Compared to magnetic models like the MOSUNY or YPOO, this isn’t built for power or precision—but that’s not its job. It’s a no-frills, easy-entry machine for those prioritizing quiet operation and affordability over performance depth. It beats basic hydraulic rowers in stroke quality and beats magnetic ones in price. For the cost of a single fitness class, you get a durable, low-noise rower that gets the job done—a smarter pick than most under $100, especially if noise is a dealbreaker.

Lightweight, app-powered, and built for motivation—the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205SMART shines as the go-to for tech-savvy beginners who want engagement without complexity. Its 12-level hydraulic resistance adjusts with a simple knob turn, offering smooth progression for new rowers, while the SunnyFit app integration unlocks thousands of scenic rows and guided workouts—no subscription fee. That free, unlimited content library transforms solo sessions into immersive experiences, solving the boredom trap that kills most home fitness routines.

During testing, the 22.4 lb ultra-light frame made it effortless to carry between rooms—a game-changer for small apartments or shared spaces. The hydraulic system is quiet and responsive, though it lacks the realism of air or magnetic resistance. It handles steady workouts well, but repeated sprints expose slight wobble in the single rail—fine for light use, but not ideal for aggressive training. The digital monitor tracks time, count, and calories, but doesn’t display distance or stroke rate, relying instead on the app for deeper insights.

Against the FEIERDUN or Goplus models, it’s in the same weight class but stands out with best-in-class app connectivity and a more polished build. It’s not for serious athletes, but for someone who wants a no-fuss, fun, space-saving rower that stays interesting, it’s unmatched. While it doesn’t offer dual rails or high resistance, it delivers more value per pound than any other lightweight rower—making fitness feel less like a chore and more like an adventure.

Engineered for stability and progression, the MOSUNY magnetic rower stands tall with its upgraded dual slide rails—a rare feature at this price that delivers a rock-solid, wobble-free stroke even during intense pulls. The 16-level magnetic resistance offers precise control, letting users fine-tune workouts from rehab-paced glides to sprint intervals, while the 350 lb capacity and thickened steel frame inspire confidence across body types. This isn’t just a home rower—it’s a serious upgrade over single-rail models, built to last beyond the first few months of New Year’s resolution energy.

In practice, the dual rail system absorbs lateral force better than competitors, making it feel more like a commercial machine. The LCD monitor tracks seven metrics—including 500m split time—giving athletes actionable feedback for pacing and endurance. At under 30 dB, it’s whisper-quiet, perfect for shared living. However, the seat, while smooth, is thinner than premium models and may feel firm on longer sessions. It handles high-volume training well, though the app-free design means you’ll need a separate device for guided workouts.

Stacked against the Dripex or YPOO, it matches them in resistance and capacity but lacks Bluetooth or app support—a trade-off for mechanical reliability. It’s ideal for users who want maximum stability and resistance range without digital distractions. If you value dual rails, high weight tolerance, and no app dependency, this delivers better long-term performance than most mid-range rowers—a durable workhorse in a market full of flash-in-the-pan models.

Light as air, quick to deploy, and built for tiny spaces—the FEIERDUN rower is the king of portability without sacrificing core functionality. Weighing just 22.4 lbs, it’s effortless to carry upstairs, store under a bed, or toss in a car for travel—making it perfect for dorms, RVs, or studio apartments. The 12 hydraulic resistance levels offer smooth, quiet tension that scales well for beginners, and the cushioned seat glides comfortably along the rail, reducing strain during longer sessions. For anyone who values lightweight design and instant setup, this machine delivers where it counts.

In real-world use, the 5-minute tool-free assembly is a breath of fresh air—just snap on the pedals and seat, and you’re rowing. The alloy steel frame supports up to 300 lbs and stays stable on flat surfaces, though aggressive strokes can cause minor sway due to the single rail. The low-impact motion is joint-friendly, ideal for rehab or daily mobility work, but the hydraulic system doesn’t replicate the flywheel feel of magnetic or air rowers. It’s best suited for light cardio, not high-intensity training.

Compared to the Sunny Health & Fitness model, it’s nearly identical in weight and resistance but lacks app support. Against heavier models like the MOSUNY or Dripex, it gives up stability and resistance depth—but that’s the trade-off for unmatched portability. It’s not for serious athletes, but for travelers, small-space dwellers, or casual users, it’s the most practical lightweight rower available—offering solid performance in a featherlight frame.

The sweet spot of performance, quietness, and value—this rower earns its “Best Overall” title by balancing what matters most: magnetic resistance, whisper-quiet operation, and a 350 lb capacity in a compact build. With 16 no-contact magnetic levels, it delivers smooth, scalable resistance that feels realistic and wears minimal over time. The under 30 dB operation means you can row at 6 AM without guilt, while the reinforced alloy steel frame ensures rock-solid stability—no creaks, no wobble, just clean, consistent strokes.

Testing revealed excellent real-world versatility: the LCD monitor tracks time, speed, distance, and calories clearly, and the 85% pre-assembled state means you’re rowing in under 20 minutes. The sweat-resistant handles and padded seat enhance comfort, and the transport wheels make storage a breeze. It handles everything from recovery rows to HIIT, though the single rail limits extreme power output compared to dual-rail models. Still, for 90% of users, it’s more than sufficient.

Up against the MOSUNY or Dripex, it matches them in resistance and capacity but lacks dual rails or app support. Yet, it outshines both in ease of setup and noise control. It’s the ideal pick for someone who wants a reliable, quiet, full-featured rower without tech bloat or assembly frustration. For the price, it delivers better balance of quality, performance, and user-friendliness than any other mid-tier model—a true all-rounder.

The ultimate budget gateway to magnetic rowing—the Goplus machine proves you don’t need to spend big to get real resistance and full-body engagement. With 10 magnetic levels, it offers smoother, quieter performance than rope or hydraulic systems, making it a clear step up from entry-level rowers. The foldable design and transport wheels make storage effortless, while the LCD monitor tracks calories, distance, and stroke count—giving beginners enough data to stay motivated. At just $79.99, it’s the most affordable magnetic rower in the lineup, and that price-to-performance ratio is its superpower.

In practice, the iron frame feels sturdy up to its 265 lb limit, though it’s not as rigid as heavier models. The seat glides smoothly, and the pivoting footplates accommodate most shoe sizes. However, the 10 resistance levels max out too early for advanced users, and the stroke feels slightly short for taller rowers (over 6’1”). It’s best for light to moderate cardio, not high-intensity training. On hard floors, it stays quiet and stable, but on thick carpet, the front feet can sink slightly.

Versus the LUBBYGIM or Sunny models, it trades app features and lighter weight for true magnetic resistance at rock-bottom pricing. It’s not flashy, but for someone who wants a durable, no-nonsense rower under $80, it’s unbeatable. While it lacks the refinement of pricier machines, it delivers core rowing benefits without compromise on fundamentals—making it the smartest budget buy for beginners.

A full-featured powerhouse built for total-body transformation—the Dripex rower combines dual slide rails, 16 magnetic levels, and Bluetooth app support into one aggressive package that feels like a commercial machine. With a 48.8-inch rail and 350 lb capacity, it accommodates users from 4’5” to 6’5”, while the 12 lb flywheel and 66 lbs of resistance deliver a dynamic, fluid stroke that mimics real water rowing. This is not just cardio equipment—it’s a muscle-building engine that engages over 90% of your body with every pull.

In testing, the dual rail system eliminated lateral shake, even during explosive sprints, and the Bluetooth integration with fitness apps added gamified challenges that kept workouts engaging. The LCD monitor tracks key metrics, though the interface feels dated compared to newer models. The 20-minute assembly is straightforward, and the vertical storage saves space. However, the seat padding is thinner than expected, and long sessions can become uncomfortable without a cushion.

Compared to the YPOO or MOSUNY, it matches them in resistance and rail design but edges ahead with stronger flywheel resistance and app compatibility. It’s the best pick for users who want a serious, app-connected, full-body machine without spending $300+. While it lacks a tablet holder angle adjust, it delivers superior performance and stability for the price—making it the top choice for fitness-focused rowers.

The total package for mid-range buyers—the YPOO rower hits a perfect harmony of silence, strength, and smart features that makes it the best value in the $150–$160 range. With 16 magnetic levels and under 25 dB operation, it’s whisper-quiet—ideal for apartments—while the 99 lbs of achievable resistance provides serious challenge for even seasoned athletes. The 6.5% incline design adds a unique twist, simulating uphill rowing to intensify calorie burn and engage more muscle fibers, making every stroke more effective.

During real-world use, the 46” dual slide rail provided excellent stability, and the textured handle and sweat-resistant grips prevented slippage during intense sessions. The YPOOFIT and Kinomap app support delivered immersive training, while the adjustable tablet holder kept screens at eye level. The LCD monitor covered all essentials, and the vertical storage with wheels made it easy to tuck away. Assembly took about 25 minutes, with clear video guidance.

Against the Dripex or MOSUNY, it matches or exceeds them in quietness, app support, and comfort while offering a more engaging workout via incline design. It’s not the cheapest, but it delivers premium features at a mid-tier price—making it the smartest upgrade for serious home users. If you want a quiet, app-connected, muscle-building machine that doesn’t break the bank, this is the most complete package available.